Keegan Pleased With Slim & Trim Enrique

Much was expected of Enrique following his £6.3million move from Villarreal last summer, as he was touted as one of Iberia's most promising young defenders during his time at El Madrigal.

However, things did not necessarily go as planned during the 22-year-old's first season on Tyneside. Then-manager Sam Allardyce, to the bewilderment of many, used him only sparingly and instead preferred Charles N'Zogbia - an outright attacking midfielder - in the left-back slot.

The former Levante star was low on confidence when Keegan took the reins mid-season, and the new boss echoed Allardyce's claims that the player needed time to adjust to English football.

Exactly what type of adjustements were required are now clear, as Keegan singled out the improved fitness and increased energy levels that Enrique has displayed during the pre-season.

"He has come back and he has lost weight," said the former England boss. "He was told to come back fitter than he left - he was a little bit heavy, I think - and he has done that. Now he just has to put the work in."